What Are the Most Common Sports Injuries?

There are a lot of common misconceptions about sports injuries. For example, many people assume that male athletes are more prone to sports injuries because of high-contact sports like football, but the reality is that female athletes are just as prone (if not more so) to sports injuries.

Another common misconception is that sports injuries are par for the course and don’t always need immediate treatment.

The reality is that some of the most common sports injuries can become worse over time if left untreated. Injured athletes should always seek medical attention after receiving an injury.

What, exactly, are the most common sports injuries? Read on to find out.

Most Common Sports Injuries and Their Symptoms

Sports injuries range from minor to severe and it is often the minor injuries that are overlooked. Athletes are often expected to “walk it off” and keep playing, which can exacerbate any injuries they do have. Some of the most common injuries and their symptoms include:

• Muscle strains, which can cause pain in the affected area, lowered range of motion, and muscle spasms
• Sprains, which can cause pain in the affected area, inability to put weight on the affected area, and temporary immobility
• Fractured arms, legs, and feet, which can feel similar to a broken bone but less severe
• Tennis elbow, which can cause pain in the elbow and arm and limited range of motion
• Shin splints, which can feel similar to a broken bone but less severe, often causing shooting pain up and down the shin
• Back injuries, which can cause discomfort in normally comfortable positions, difficulty standing, and a limited range of motion; in severe cases, back injuries that involve nerve damage can lead to partial paralysis
• Concussion, which can cause a wide variety of symptoms including dizziness, nausea, insomnia, trouble focusing, and migraines

Many of these injuries are caused by physical contact or repetitive motions. Many of them become more likely if you do not warm up properly or wear the right equipment when participating in a sport.

What To Do If You Get Injured Playing Sports

A lot of these injuries may start out mild but can worsen over time or lead to serious health problems later in life. For example, repeated strains and muscle tears can increase your chances of osteoporosis and arthritis as you age. No matter the injury, contact a medical professional who can assist with your injury and prevent more severe physical issues from developing down the line.

Don’t Be Fooled: Sports Injuries Do Require Medical Treatment

We tend to assume that playing a sport entails an inherent risk that athletes should learn to live with. The reality is that even the most common sports injuries can lead to severe physical health problems if left untreated. Don’t just walk it off; seek medical help.

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